The 15th annual Champaign-Urbana Pride Fest kicks off Sept. 15 with events running through Sept. 22. Given the variety of offerings, there’s likely something for everyone to enjoy. Here are five of our favorite picks for Pride Fest, presented by the UP Center:
- Living History with LGBTQ+ Elders: After a successful program last year, Pride organizers chose to bring this one back again this year, and it’s easy to see why. Some LGBTQ+ elders have been invited to sit at stations and discuss their stories, answer questions and engage various generations about their experiences. It’s free at the University YMCA from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Sept. 17.
- Maybe Baby: Basics of Becoming at LGBTQ+ Parent: A queer person considering becoming a parent has a multitude of things to ponder, and this free session, scheduled for 6-7:30 p.m. Sept. 18 at Champaign Public Library, is a perfect starting point. It’s a panel discussion featuring three queer parents who each took different paths to parenthood, along with an attorney who has experience working with local families.
- Queer Movie Night — The Stonewall Uprising: This documentary, free to attend, explains the most important flashpoint in LGBTQ+ civil rights history, and the subsequent events of the modern Pride movement. For ages 19 and up at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 19 at Anthem (320 N. Neil St., Champaign).
- Youth and Family Pride Party: Another free event, this one focuses on families, teens and youngsters. The Urbana Park District will offer a Pride-themed Teen Hangout Zone inside the Phillips Recreation Center, while outside activities include games, crafts, free Kona Ice (!), a bounce house and music. Scheduled for 3:30-6 p.m. Sept. 20.
- Pride Parade: It’s the signature event of any Pride Fest — the parade! It steps off at 1 p.m. Sept. 21 in downtown Urbana, and kicks off the Fair, which runs from 1-5 p.m. There are two entertainment stages planned, and you can find more details here.
Click here for the full Pride Fest calendar.